Ghana’s Parliament has shifted toward the National Democratic Congress (NDC) following recent defections. Four lawmakers left their parties just two months before the general elections on December 7.
The defectors include two from the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), one from the NDC, and one independent MP. They plan to run in the upcoming elections under new affiliations.
Ghana’s constitution prohibits MPs from switching parties before elections. Speaker Alban Bagbin declared four seats vacant, granting the NDC a slim majority.
Bagbin noted that defections undermine public trust and can destabilize Parliament. The presidential election will coincide with the legislative vote, intensifying competition between the NPP and NDC.
This shift raises concerns over passing critical legislation, including bills on nuclear energy and a World Bank loan agreement.
In response, the NPP has filed a lawsuit with the Supreme Court. Led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, NPP members walked out of Parliament, pledging to boycott future sessions.
Afenyo-Markin stated, “We will not participate in further sittings until these matters are resolved.”
Rasheed Draman from the African Centre for Parliamentary Affairs urged for compromise to avoid legislative paralysis.
Ghana, with a population of 33 million, remains a beacon of democratic stability amid regional challenges.